Edinburgh isn’t just a city of stunning architecture and centuries of stories—it’s also a foodie paradise. Unlike many cities, Edinburgh offers a deeply local, authentic culinary experience that reflects its history, its people, and its vibrant culture. Whether you’re a dedicated food lover or just curious about Scotland’s flavors, the city’s diverse range of food tours has a lot to offer. We’re particularly fans of tours that combine storytelling with tasting, like the Edinburgh Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours, which expertly blends Edinburgh’s historic streets with flavorful bites of Haggis and award-winning whisky. These experiences serve as a delicious gateway into the soul of Scotland, making Edinburgh a top destination for culinary exploration.
Across this list, you’ll find a variety of tours—from intimate private tastings to comprehensive multi-stop adventures. Some focus on traditional Scottish dishes, others highlight modern interpretations, and a few include drinks like whisky, wine, or local beers. No matter your budget or pace preference, there’s a tour that fits your style. Below, we introduce each one with an eye for what makes it special, helping you decide which to book.
1. Edinburgh Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
This small-group tour explores Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, highlighting iconic sights and sampling Scottish classics like Haggis, Neeps and Tatties, plus Scotch whisky and afternoon tea. The tour lasts around 3 hours and is limited to no more than 10 participants, ensuring a personal experience. Tour guide Carlos is praised for his knowledge and storytelling, making each food stop a learning experience as well as a taste. You’ll walk through historic streets, stopping at landmarks like Holyrood Park and Sir Walter Scott’s monument, all while discovering how locals celebrate their food. Guests often mention how this tour provides a meaningful cultural connection and a chance to understand Edinburgh’s passionate food scene.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a relaxed, small-group experience with authentic Scottish food and city views.
2. Edinburgh Food & Drink Tour with EatWalk Tours
For around $136, this tour offers a deep dive into Edinburgh’s culinary heritage with several stops across the Old and New Towns. Over roughly 3 hours, you’ll enjoy food and drink tastings that add up to a full meal, including whisky tastings at three locations. Your guide shares stories about Edinburgh’s history, linking historic sites to regional flavors. The small-group format allows for personalized interaction, making it perfect for those who want a richer understanding of Scottish food culture. Past guests highlight the knowledgeable guides and the variety of tastings, from local pubs to hidden eateries.
Bottom Line: Best suited for curious travelers who want a comprehensive tasting and storytelling experience in a friendly setting.
3. Edinburgh: Food Tour with Scotch, Haggis, Secret Dish & More
This 3-hour tour invites you to taste the iconic Haggis, paired with neeps and tatties in the historic Old Town, alongside samples of award-winning Scotch whisky. It’s designed for those eager to understand Scottish cuisine’s roots through story-rich tastings. The tour also features cranachan dessert and a local guide who shares culinary secrets and tales behind each dish. The focus on traditional Scottish flavors makes this a favorite for visitors wanting to experience the authentic tastes of Edinburgh. Reviewers praise the engaging storytelling and the chance to taste multiple iconic dishes in one go.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a cultural culinary overview with a focus on traditional Scottish dishes.
4. Edinburgh Luxury Private Food & Drink Tour with Eat Walk Tours
At around $323, this private tour lasts from 2 to 4 hours and is tailored to your tastes. It takes you beyond the Royal Mile into Edinburgh’s West End and New Town, visiting high-end restaurants and boutique bars. The use of audio headsets ensures a personalized experience, and a detailed map with discounts adds value for future explorations. Guests love the flexibility and intimate setting, with many reviews noting how the guide shares local recommendations and hidden spots that are off-limits on larger group tours. Expect to taste a variety of Scottish foods paired with regional drinks, all while learning about Edinburgh’s architecture and neighborhoods.
Bottom Line: Suited for foodies wanting a bespoke, private experience with insider tips.
5. New! Edinburgh Old Town Food & Drinks Tour with Eating Europe
This shorter, 1.5- to 3-hour tour (perfect for a quick culinary fix) celebrates Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival with a focus on local flavor and vibrant street life. The tour includes stops at beloved spots such as Landy’s Fish and Chips, Royal Mile taverns, and the Haggis & Whisky House, sampling fish and chips, pub pies, and traditional Scottish snacks. It’s a lively, festival-inspired experience ideal for those exploring during the summer or wanting a taste of Edinburgh’s entertainment scene intertwined with food. Reviewers love the friendly guides and the opportunity to try multiple types of Scottish cuisine in a short time.
Bottom Line: Great for festival visitors or travelers short on time who still want a full, flavorful experience.
6. Premium Edinburgh Traditional Food Tour
Spanning 4 to 5 hours, this tour covers Edinburgh’s Old Town and Royal Mile. It offers a chance to sample traditional and contemporary Scottish dishes across various venues. With a focus on local restaurants, the tour includes at least one alcoholic drink and personalized recommendations for the rest of your trip. Guests note the tour’s depth, with its detailed history and diverse food stops, perfect for travelers who want to soak in Edinburgh’s culinary scene thoroughly. Reviewers mention the guide’s enthusiasm and the variety of dishes, from hearty stews to modern bites.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting an in-depth, flexible experience with plenty of recommendations for future meals.
7. Edinburgh Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
This personalized, 3-hour tour focuses on authentic Scottish fare like haggis, cheese, and whisky, with the added benefit of avoiding crowds. The private setup makes it ideal for couples or small groups, with flexibility on start times. Guests rave about the guide’s knowledge, calling Skye “exceptional,” and appreciate the mixture of local treats and city landmarks. The tour includes stops at iconic spots, with a focus on tasting and storytelling. It’s a superb choice for those wanting a tailored, intimate experience with a culinary expert.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking privacy, customization, and a relaxed pace.
8. The Best Food Tour in Edinburgh
At just over 2 hours, this VIP experience offers five courses in a hidden traditional restaurant. The tour emphasizes Scottish cuisine with paired drinks and stories, making it more than just a tasting. Guests say the experience is emotional and authentic, with many highlighting the guide’s engaging storytelling. It’s suited for foodies looking for a special night out who want to explore Edinburgh’s culinary secrets in style. The price reflects the quality of food and personalized service, making it good value for a truly memorable evening.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting an intimate, high-quality Scottish dining experience.
9. Taste & Tour: Edinburgh Food Tour with Drinks
This 3.5-hour tour focuses on Edinburgh’s historic sites like the Grassmarket and Lawnmarket, combined with food and drink tastings. Expect to sample traditional Scottish bites and beverages, including a visit to a local pub and a whisky tasting. The tour is praised for its well-paced itinerary and friendly guide, James. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and flavors, with enough time to enjoy the setting and stories.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want a relaxed pace exploring Edinburgh’s historic streets with food in hand.
10. Private Whisky Tasting, Scottish Food & Wine Pairing Tour
For connoisseurs, this 3-hour private tour offers artisan Scottish foods paired with European wines and Scotch whisky. Hosted at three iconic venues, it’s an indulgent experience that combines culinary education with tastings. Guests appreciate the expert hosts and the variety of food and drink pairings. The high price tag reflects its luxurious, personalized nature, making it perfect for special occasions or true enthusiasts. Reviewers mention the high quality of the food and the engaging storytelling.
Bottom Line: Best for those celebrating a special trip or wanting a curated, upscale tasting experience.
11. PRIVATE Edinburgh Food Tours – Old Town, Leith
This 3-hour private tour in Edinburgh’s Old Town and Leith visits local pubs, restaurants, and shops. Focused on Scottish cuisine with a modern twist, the tour includes sampling Scottish beef, local cheeses, and sweet treats. The guide’s local insights help uncover hidden favorites in these historic neighborhoods. Reviewers value the personalized approach and the quality of the food, describing it as a true Edinburgh culinary journey.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a private, customizable experience in key neighborhoods.
12. The 10 Tastings of Edinburgh With Locals: Private Food Tour
This 3-hour private experience offers ten carefully curated tastings, including whiskey, haggis, and local cheeses. The emphasis on personalized attention and the chance to explore hidden corners makes it a favorite among repeat visitors. The guide’s background as a food enthusiast shines through, with guests appreciating the detailed recommendations and relaxed pace. It’s perfect for those who want to truly taste Edinburgh’s culinary diversity while learning stories behind each dish.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who prefer intimate, tailored experiences with a focus on local flavors.
13. Private Edinburgh Street Food Walking Tour
This 3-hour private tour offers at least ten samples from Edinburgh’s street food scene, including fish and chips, haggis, and baked goods. Guides focus on the city’s multicultural influences, which are reflected in diverse flavors. The tour’s small size allows for flexibility and personal attention, and guests love the chance to try authentic street eats that are hard to find elsewhere. It’s perfect for those who want to experience local street culture while tasting a variety of foods.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventurous travelers keen on exploring Edinburgh’s street food scene with a private guide.
14. Edinburgh: VIP Food Tour in a Hidden, Traditional Restaurant
This exclusive, 129-minute VIP experience offers five dishes with four pairings, focusing on regional and traditional Scottish dishes like Cullen Skink, Haggis, and seafood. The intimate setting and personalized service make it ideal for a special night out. Guests mention how rare it is to find such authentic, off-the-beaten-path venues, making this a memorable culinary treat. The guide’s expertise ensures you’re immersed in local food secrets.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies seeking a private, high-end culinary experience in Edinburgh.
15. New! Taste of Edinburgh: Local Food Tour in Stockbridge
This 1.5- to 2-hour tour, led by a former chef, explores Stockbridge’s emerging food scene, sampling three authentic Scottish dishes, Irn-Bru, and local cheeses. The relaxed pace and focus on local eateries make it a great way to experience Edinburgh’s up-and-coming neighborhood. Guests love the personal stories shared about Stockbridge’s characters and history, adding depth to the tasting journey.
Bottom Line: Ideal for foodies wanting to explore less touristy areas with authentic flavors.
How to Choose the Best Food Tour for You
When selecting a food tour in Edinburgh, consider your budget, time available, and what kind of experience you prefer. If you want an intimate, private experience, Tours like Secret Food Tours or Edinburgh VIP Food Tour offer personalized service. For those seeking a comprehensive city overview, the EatWalk Tour combines storytelling with tastings across key neighborhoods. Budget travelers might opt for shorter options like the Old Town Food & Drinks Tour, which packs a lot into a quick timeframe.
Timing is also key; summer festivals and weekends tend to be bustling, so booking early is advised, especially for private and small-group tours. For a culinary deep dive, tours with multiple tastings and drink pairings like the Private Whisky & Food Tour are perfect. If you’re pressed for time but want a flavorful introduction, the Taste of Edinburgh in Stockbridge offers a lovely, relaxed walk through one of Edinburgh’s best neighborhoods.
Edinburgh’s food scene is as layered as its history, and any of these tours can serve as your culinary passport. Whether you choose a private tasting, a lively pub crawl, or an in-depth exploration of traditional dishes, you’ll leave with full belly and a deeper appreciation for Scottish culture. Remember to book early—these experiences are popular, and a seat at the table is well worth the planning.